Although the populist view that Australia’s manufacturing industry is on its last legs seems to be gathering momentum, many manufacturing companies across the country are bucking the trend by adopting a culture of constant advancement in innovation and technology.

Queensland-based manufacturer Frosty Boy Australia, which produces versatile dessert and beverage powder base solutions for local and international markets, is a great example that the country’s manufacturing sector is alive and kicking.

The company has experienced an increase in production by 17% year on year over the last decade of operation on the back of their local innovations and has also managed to grow its business in more than 54 international markets.

Frosty Boy’s Managing Director, Dirk Pretorius, said a unique combination of expertise, innovation and efficiency is what a manufacturing company really needs to be both successful and commercially viable on the international stage.

“Frosty Boy has seen a significant increase in international demand for our products and we have adopted advanced manufacturing techniques to remain competitive. In fact, we have experienced an increase in production by 17% year on year over the last decade of operation,” Mr Pretorius said.

“It is possible for Australian manufacturing brands to be successful on the international stage by adopting a culture of constant advancement in innovation and technology“.

Frosty Boy’s General Manager Sales and Marketing, Felipe Demartini was also quick to dispel another misconception that is persisting on the market – the belief that Australia’s geographic isolation and high operational costs have reduced its international competitiveness.

“Companies can sidestep this perception and expand into new markets if they embrace innovation, great service and become experts in their field,” he said.

“Although generally Australia is seen to have significantly higher operational costs, Frosty Boy invests significantly in operational efficiencies to reduce this reliance and allow it to compete on an international level while still being able to leverage the internationally acclaimed ‘Australian Made’ brand.”

Mr Pretorius said Frosty Boy dedicates almost 4% of revenue to R&D, to strengthen its foothold in global markets.

“Ranking sixth in largest employer by sector, the importance and potential of manufacturing in Australia should not be overlooked but embraced with open arms, intellectual rigour and innovative offerings.”